The story behind the backpack
Fjällräven’s founder, Åke Nordin, designed the Kånken backpack in 1978 with a clear purpose: to help with back pain amongst Swedish schoolchildren. It didn’t take long for the backpack to become a familiar sight in schools across the country. Today, Fjällräven’s Kånken is still considered to be an iconic design, used by children and adults around the world.
Explore the Kånken family
Over time, Kånken has grown into a family that includes wide range of functional bags and accessories to suit different needs. At its core is the classic backpack, but you’ll also find a mini version, laptop-friendly designs, and other versatile everyday options. Discover what the Kånken family has to offer.
Kånken: The backpack that started it all
From the start, the classic Fjällräven Kånken backpack has been appreciated for its practical design. It features a spacious main compartment, a zippered front pocket, and two side pockets—plenty of room for your everyday essentials, day treks, or short trips. Inside, there’s a foam seat pad that prevents items from pressing against your back—and can be taken out to use as a seat when needed. As well as being highly functional, the classic Kånken comes in a wide range of colours, from neutrals to bold tones, to suit all kinds of styles and personalities.
Kånken Laptop: For work, study, and life on the go
Many of us need to carry a laptop with us—whether for work, study, or life on the go. That’s why the Kånken family includes practical laptop bags designed to fit 13”, 15”, and 17” devices. Each features a padded, separate laptop compartment, and padded shoulder straps for added comfort. And there’s still space for all the other things you need throughout the day.
Kånken Mini: Small in size, big on functionality
Kånken Mini is the same recognisable backpack as the classic Kånken—just in a smaller size. The perfect compact size for kids – they can pack it with snacks and make good use of the seat pad while playing outdoors. Thanks to its timeless design, it’s also a great option for adults looking for a smaller backpack.
Versatile Kånken bags and hip packs: A design for every occasion
Kånken has grown into a family that includes much more than just backpacks. Now there are multi-purpose bags, hip packs, and more. The Kånken Hip Pack Plus, for example, is a compact waist bag ideal for life on the go that can be worn around the waist, on the shoulder, or as a crossbody bag. It holds your daily essentials with ease. Need more space? The Kånken Totepack doubles as a backpack or shoulder bag and fits a 13” laptop. For travel, there’s the Kånken Weekender, designed with Kånken’s signature functionality in mind. Wear it as a simple hold all, across the body, or as a backpack on your next adventure.
Kånken accessories: Customise your gear
The Kånken family consists of more than backpacks and bags — it now includes practical accessories. Choose from a wide range of items, including keyrings, wallets, water bottle pockets, and rain covers. Whether you use your Kånken for work, school, or travel, there are accessories to customise its functionality to your needs.
Longevity through durability
One of the key reasons for the popularity of the classic Kånken is its hardwearing material Vinylon F. A man-made fabric, it is resilient and easy to care for. Resistant to water without the need for a coating, it is a practical choice of material for outdoor life. Due to the proven durability of Vinylon F, combined with proper care, there are plenty of stories about Kånkens being used for decades or passed down in families.
Supporting the Arctic Fox Initiative
Selected Kånken products also support the Arctic Fox Initiative. Founded in 2019, it gives grants to non-profit organisations that have the goal of protecting our environment, or inspiring people to spend time in nature. It’s funded through the sale of select Fjällräven products, including selected Kånkens.
FAQ
How do you wash a Kånken backpack in the washing machine?
To clean your Kånken backpack, you should actually avoid putting it in the washing machine altogether. Instead, use a soft brush or sponge with lukewarm water and a little washing-up liquid. Then let your Kånken air-dry in a well-ventilated space, avoiding direct sunlight. With the right care, your Kånken should last for many outdoor adventures to come.
Is Kånken waterproof?
Vinylon F, the material used for many Kånken products, is water resistant – not waterproof. For added protection, consider pairing your Kånken backpack with a rain cover.
